Wes first came to CareerForce in Willmar, back when it was called the Workforce Center. Wes had suffered an injury on the job and was not physically able to work where he had been employed. As Wes recovered from his injury, he worked with an employment counselor to find a career path that would not only support his interests and suit his limitations, but also benefit his community.

Wes completed his Ridgewater College Business Management and Ownership courses in 2007, with tuition support from Central Minnesota Jobs and Training (CMJTS) through the Dislocated Worker program. Thanks to his new education credentials and assistance he received with career planning and job search strategy, Wes said he gained his life back. He was able to secure a job with highly competitive wages and achieve self-sufficiency. When he was back on his feet, he was able to start giving back to his community.

“If I claim to be successful on my own, how would that reflect to everyone around me? What a slap in the face to everyone that makes a difference in the lives of others,” Wes told CareerForce Workforce Development Specialist Melissa Ball-Warriner. “You may not realize this but you don't know how special of a person you are and how deep of an impact you make in the opportunities a well prepared resume, that you fine tune, provides people.”